Sambhal (Uttar Pradesh), July 6: With Muharram processions coinciding with the ongoing Kanwar Yatra across Uttar Pradesh, the state administration has ramped up security measures to ensure peace in sensitive districts like Sambhal, Lucknow, and Moradabad.
Massive crowds gathered for Muharram processions statewide. Given the simultaneous Kanwar Yatra, police forces have been deployed in vulnerable areas, supported by drones and over 13,000 CCTV cameras to monitor activities in real time.
Sambhal District Magistrate Dr Rajender Pensiya said peace committee meetings were held across all levels, involving community representatives to preempt potential issues. “Magistrates and police officers are deployed at every procession point in a box formation, with continuous drone surveillance. Section 163 is in effect, and over 900 individuals are being monitored or face bans,” he said.
In Lucknow’s Old City—known for its heightened sensitivity during Muharram—DCP West Vishwajeet Srivastava detailed a three-layered security system: officers embedded in processions, teams managing routes, and personnel at key points. Eighty-two CCTV cameras, drones, and Civil Defence volunteers have been deployed, with authorities maintaining close contact with religious leaders.
In Moradabad, District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Singh reported proactive security steps. “Peace Committee meetings addressed guidelines on Taziya heights and children’s participation. For the Kanwar Yatra, we inspected the route, ensured road readiness, and coordinated with PWD and municipal bodies,” he said. Cameras are being installed along the Kanwar route, and known troublemakers are under scrutiny, while DJs have been instructed to control sound levels.
Authorities remain vigilant to ensure both religious events conclude peacefully.